Transsphincteric repair of rectourethral fistulas following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

Rectourethral fistula is a serious complication following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. We report our experience with a transsphincteric approach in the repair of this uncommon complication. The rectourethral fistula was repaired in a three-stage procedure comprising fecal diversion, transsphincteric repair of the fistula and, finally, closure of the stoma. Two patients with rectourethral fistulas underwent this procedure and the postoperative course was uneventful. In conclusion, a transsphincteric approach in the repair of rectourethral fistula by a three-stage procedure is safe and may be the treatment of choice.